The Apes Hill Guide to Getting Around Barbados

If you’re planning a holiday in Barbados, you should make time to explore its diverse nature and culture. Swim in the bright blue waters, hike through all the different leafy gullies and immerse yourself in more typically ‘tourist’ activities, such as visiting a rum distillery, a farmers market or set sail into the sunset. The opportunities to try all of the local foods from street vendors are limitless, and you can take your pick from the number of beautiful, sandy beaches that stretch along the Bajan coastline to relax on.

To truly experience everything Barbados has to offer, you’ll need to travel around the island, and be aware that often, some experiences are harder to access by conventional modes of transport. To help, we’ve created a list of all the different ways to get around the island, to ensure you don’t have to miss out on any experience in Barbados, just because you can’t get there.

And if you’re staying with us at Apes Hill Barbados, we are more than happy to call a taxi for you or advise how best to get somewhere.

When travelling in Barbados, you'll find that public transport and buses make getting around the island a breeze. With a well-connected network, public transport provides an easy and affordable way to explore the island's picturesque towns and stunning landscapes.

There are two types of buses operating in Barbados, catering to different preferences and budgets:

Transport Board Buses (Blue)

• These government-owned buses are the largest buses you’ll encounter, providing services across the island with routes connecting all major towns. Some buses are even electric, offering air conditioning and free Wi-Fi.

Mini Buses/ ZRs / “Reggae Buses”

• Privately-owned, these smaller buses are better in their offering of more flexibility, often stopping at unscheduled points along their routes, painted colourfully and playing the latest Caribbean music. Covering most of the island, they're a popular choice for visitors who want to journey around Barbados like a local.

Buses in Barbados operate from 5am to midnight daily, making it easy to plan your day around the island. The bus fare is very affordable, ranging from BD$2 to a flat fare of $3.50 regardless of the distance travelled.

Do note that the exact fare may vary, so it's always best to confirm with the bus driver when boarding.

To help plan your trips from Apes Hill, our staff are more than happy to assist you. Or, you can consult the official Transport Board website (www.transportboard.com) for the most accurate and up-to-date bus timetables and routes.

Travelling in Barbados can be just as much about the journey as it is about the destination.

Hop on board the brightly-coloured, open-sided Rocklyn Bus and enjoy a scenic tour of the island. Reminiscent of those used in the 1960s and 1970s, this is a unique sightseeing experience which really allows you to immerse yourself in the island’s charm and beauty.

While Barbados boasts an extensive public transport system, there are times when you may prefer a more comfortable and convenient option for getting around the island. Plus, you can enjoy a few more glasses! Taxis in Barbados offer door-to-door service, making them a hassle-free choice for both short and long journeys.

Taxi services become especially valuable after midnight when the island's buses cease operations. Whether you're enjoying a night out at a local restaurant, bar, or event, a taxi can ensure you return to your accommodation safely and comfortably. And if you can't decide where to spend your evening, take a look at this list of our favourite bars and restaurants in Barbados.

Apes Hill offers a dedicated taxi service for guests, providing an added layer of convenience during your stay. By collaborating with trusted providers, we help our community find the best transportation options for their needs. Guests can simply call Apes Hill’s concierge or guest experiences team to request a taxi or schedule a pick-up time in advance, allowing for a seamless travel experience.

Confirm the fare

• Before starting your journey, it's a good idea to agree upon the fare with the driver. Although many taxis are metered, some may not be, so clarifying the cost upfront can prevent misunderstandings.

Check for licensed taxis

• To ensure a safe and reliable ride, look for taxis displaying a "Z" or "ZR" licence plate. These plates indicate that the vehicle is a registered taxi in Barbados.

Carry local currency

• While some taxis may accept credit cards, it's always best to have some local currency (Barbadian dollars) on hand in case cash is the preferred payment method.

When visiting Barbados, one of the best ways to fully immerse yourself in the island's beauty and culture is by having the freedom to explore at your own pace. Renting a car during your stay, or for a portion of it, grants you the independence and flexibility you need to make the most of your vacation.

Before you hit the road, it's essential to be aware of the legalities involved in driving in Barbados. All visitors intending to drive on the island must obtain a visitor's permit. This permit can be acquired through car rental agencies or the Barbados Licensing Authority for BDS$10.00. Once you have your permit, you are allowed to drive for up to two months from the date of issue.

Convenience for families

• Though there's plenty to do as a family within our resort at Apes Hill, if you want to explore more of the island having a car at your disposal makes it much easier if you're travelling with children, as you can plan your itinerary around your family's needs and preferences.

Flexibility for day trips

• Renting a car enables you to embark on numerous day trips without having to worry about public transport schedules. This flexibility allows you to experience more of what Barbados has to offer, including its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and natural attractions.

Customizable itinerary

• With a rental car, you have complete control over your daily schedule, allowing you to spend as much or as little time as you'd like at each destination.

Book in advance

• To secure the best deals and ensure availability, book your rental car before you arrive on the island.

Choose the right vehicle

• Consider the type of activities you plan to engage in and the terrain you'll be traversing when selecting a vehicle. A compact car may be suitable for city driving, while an SUV may be more appropriate for navigating the island's rugged landscapes.

Familiarise yourself with local driving rules

• Bajans drive on the left side of the road, and it's essential to be aware of other local traffic regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience.

Barbados is an ideal destination for large group events—business vacations, friendship reunions and, of course, beautiful weddings. If you’re planning a group vacation, consider hiring a coach to ensure a comfortable and convenient transportation experience for everyone involved.

Coaches available for private hire in Barbados typically come equipped with air conditioning, providing a comfortable and cool environment for your group as you explore the island. By travelling together in a single vehicle, you can maintain the group camaraderie throughout your journey, making your group vacation even more memorable.

One of the many benefits of hiring a coach for your group vacation is the opportunity to keep the energy and fun alive between destinations. Sharing the journey with your group allows you to bond, share stories, and create lasting memories, all while enjoying the beauty of Barbados.

Surrounded by the sparkling turquoise waters of the Caribbean, Barbados offers visitors the unique opportunity to experience the island from a different perspective—by boat. Whether you charter a private vessel or join a public taxi boat, you can embark on a maritime adventure that showcases the beauty and diversity of Barbados from its stunning coastline.

A day boat trip allows you to explore various parts of the island, taking in breathtaking coastal views and visiting hidden gems that are only accessible by sea. Many boat trips also include stops for snorkelling, swimming with sea turtles, or simply relaxing on sandy beaches.

Visitors can choose between private boat hire or public taxi boats to suit their preferences and budget:

Private boat hire

• Chartering a private boat offers a personalised experience, allowing you to customise your itinerary and enjoy a more intimate excursion with your family or friends.

Public taxi boats

• These boats follow predetermined routes with scheduled stops, providing an affordable and convenient way to explore the island's coastline. Taxi boats typically operate between popular destinations such as Bridgetown, Holetown, and Speightstown.

Barbados boasts several towns and attractions that are well worth exploring by boat.

Bridgetown

• The bustling capital of Barbados is rich in history and culture, offering a variety of shopping, dining, and sightseeing experiences.

Holetown

• Known for its vibrant nightlife and upscale boutiques, Holetown is the perfect destination for those looking to experience the island's lively atmosphere.

Speightstown

• This charming coastal town, also known as "Little Bristol," is renowned for its colonial architecture and picturesque waterfront.

What better way to soak up all that Barbados has to offer than from a vantage point in the sky? Take a helicopter tour and experience a panoramic, birds eye view of the island. And if that only increases your appetite to enjoy more of the Caribbean, why not hop on a flight and explore another island?

A helicopter tour offers an unparalleled perspective of Barbados, allowing you to take in the island's lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and historic sites from above. These tourist day trips often provide a knowledgeable guide who can share fascinating insights into the island's history and natural wonders, making for an unforgettable experience.

If your aerial adventure leaves you eager to explore more of the Caribbean, consider booking a regional flight to visit one or more of the neighbouring islands. Each island boasts its own unique charm and attractions, making for a diverse and enriching travel experience.

Day trips

• A short flight can take you to another Caribbean island for a day of exploration, allowing you to sample the local culture, cuisine, and natural beauty before returning to Barbados in the evening.

Multi-day excursions

• For a more in-depth experience, consider spending a few days on a neighbouring island, immersing yourself in the local culture and taking the time to fully explore the destination.

The best way to travel between Caribbean islands is by regional airline, such as Intercaribbean Airlines, Caribbean Airlines or LIAT. Virgin Atlantic has also started some regional travel commencing in Barbados. This airline offers regular flights to numerous destinations throughout the region. It is important to note that there are no ferry services linking Barbados to other Caribbean islands, making air travel the most convenient option.

We can’t go without mentioning our favourite way to explore Barbados—by walking! It’s the best way to truly immerse your senses, to take in all of the details of the island and its stunning scenery. Plus, the fresh air and exercise will refresh and revitalise you. The natural landscapes and local fauna in Barbados are spectacular, and we’ve embraced it here at Apes Hill. Read more here to learn more about the natural wonders on our golf course.

There are so many things to experience in Barbados, and Apes Hill is a great base from which to do so. If you have any questions or would like to enquire about becoming a member, don't hesitate to get in touch today.

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